GSNN ON THE RADIO
WLTI Live
LISTEN TO STREAMING AUDIO

 
Thanks for Playing!
MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | WEEKEND | PRIMETIME | SCHEDULE | ARCHIVES: 30 90 | WLTI | STATE OF PLAY | ABOUT Facebookbird, new, square, twitter icon


Paramount/Warner Bros. Discovery

PAUSE.
Antitrust Trial Set for March 2027
From Variety

Paramount CEO David Ellison told a group of the company’s top executives that he will start the process of exiting California on October 1 if the state’s Attorney General Rob Bonta will not negotiate to settle an antitrust suit around the planned merger with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Bonta has just responded: “In a span of weeks, Paramount agreed to halt the merger until a court decision or until June 2027, asked for a November trial, and is now back with another attempt to blackmail the state into letting an illegal deal through. Paramount has lost the plot as it continues to lose in court. It didn’t work the first time — on the eve of our July lawsuit — and it won’t work this time.”

Ellison made the remarks at a meeting last week. Details were first reported by Puck and confirmed by Deadline.

Bonta is leading a group of 20 state Attorneys General in the case that is set to go to trial in federal court in the Northern District of California March 2027. October 1 is the day Paramount starts to accrue a so-called ticking fee of $7 million a day agreed to in the WBD deal terms if the transaction hasn’t closed by then. Paramount had asked the judge for a November trial date.

Ellison was emphatic at the meeting that he does not want to relocate but also doesn’t feel welcome in Paramount’s home state as the company and the AG wage a PR battle. The $111 billion merger has been approved by the DOJ and international regulatory agencies, including in the EU and UK.

The AGs’ suit is focused on antitrust claims in three areas: wide release films, blockbuster films and cable network programming. Ellison has promised the combined studios will release 30 films a year with significant theatrical windows. He has said he offered to put that in writing for the AG and otherwise engage in settlement talks around potential concessions.

A relocation would start with the company’s headquarters, followed by studio jobs. Ellison would move Paramount, or the merged Paramount-WBD, regardless of the outcome of a trial. Beyond the ticking fee, Paramount would owe WBD a $7 billion termination fee (the largest in corporate history) if the deal falls apart unless Warner’s board, led by CEO David Zaslav, agrees to renegotiate. WBD can walk if the deal is not clinched by June 4.

Bonta said he’d consider structural remedies to resolve a lawsuit over the Paramount-WBD merger but dismissed “behavioral” remedies that are hard to enforce, like David Ellison’s pledge that the combined company will release 30 movies a year.

“There’s ways where the issue could be resolved with potentially structural remedies, he said at a Politico conference in Sacramento called The California Agenda. “Paramount-Warner Brothers are going to have to make business decisions for themselves.”.

The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
Entertainment Weekly
Variety
Variety
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
Variety
Variety
Variety
Deadline
Variety
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
The Wrap
Deadline
Variety
The Wrap
Deadline
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Wall Street Journal
The Wrap
Variety
Variety
Deadline
The Wrap
Deadline
The Futon Critic
Variety
Variety
Deadline
Variety
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
Variety
Variety
The Wrap
The Wrap
Deadline
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Wrap
The Wrap
The Wrap
The Wrap
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
The Wrap
Variety
Variety
Variety
Variety
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
Variety
The Wrap
The Wrap
Deadline
Variety
The Wrap
Variety
Variety
Variety
The Wrap
Deadline
The Wrap
Deadline
Variety
The Wrap
Deadline
The Wrap
Deadline
Variety
Variety
Deadline
Variety
The Wrap
Variety
Financial Times
The Wrap
Variety
Deadline
The Wrap
The Wrap
The Wrap
Reuters
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
Variety
The Wrap
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
Variety
Variety
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
Variety
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
Variety
The Wrap
Variety
The Wrap
Yahoo!/Reuters
Variety
Variety
The Wrap
The Wrap
Deadline
CNN
Ars Technica
The Wrap
The New York Times
Variety
Variety
Variety
Deadline
Variety
Deadline
The Wrap
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
Variety
Variety
ProPublica
The Wrap
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
TV Newscheck
Variety

posted 8/11/2026

Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "It's His Loss"

  • Jeffrey Dean Morgan's manager fired him because of age... right before Grey's Anatomy & Supernatural made him a star, the Walking Dead made him a name, and Destination X made him a legend. (The Hollywood Reporter)

  • Harry Jowsey says Netflix added sex sounds during his makeout scene... or "Return of the Slurp" (The Hollywood Reporter)

  • Ariana Madix teases Love Island 8 reunion (Us Weekly)

  • Courtney Robertson details infidelity that led to divorce (Reality Tea)

  • A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Jimmy Kimmel (The Hollywood Reporter)

posted 8/11/2023


EndemolShine North America/CBS

Big Brother Delivers "Biggest Season Ever"
Twists Coming for 1000th Episode August 27
From the Futon Critic

BIG BROTHER celebrates its 1000th episode live on Thursday, August 27 (8:00-9:30 PM live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+, marking the first time a primetime television series has reached this milestone.

The historic night will feature surprise appearances from former Houseguests determined by interactive fan votes and kick off the biggest twist of the summer. The episode will look back at some of the most memorable moments from the show's historic 26-year run and shift into overdrive with the BB Blockbuster and a live eviction. Details to be announced in the coming weeks.

"We are thrilled and honored to be celebrating this unprecedented milestone," said executive producers Allison Grodner and Rich Meehan. "It would not have been possible without all of the hardworking and talented people behind the scenes who make up our BIG BROTHER family. This achievement belongs to them, the hundreds of brave houseguests who have walked through the front door, our iconic host, Julie Chen Moonves, and of course, our passionate fans."

"Never did I ever expect the unexpected," said host Julie Chen Moonves. "When we launched season one, there were rumors we could get canceled midseason because we didn't have the same ratings as SURVIVOR. And now look at us, Ma! Two former SURVIVOR players are currently on our show, including a former winner, Dee. Although the past 28 seasons feel like the blink of an eye, it doesn't look that way when you see all the fashion trends and hairstyles I've worn through the decades. That's the dead giveaway for how long we've been around! I am humbled and grateful for this momentous occasion. May God allow BIG BROTHER to continue for at least another 1,000 original episodes, with more Zings, new Houseguests, and countless HOH competitions still to come!"

The milestone celebration comes amid a strong season for BIG BROTHER, which has posted a +14% increase in premiere-week Live+3 viewership versus last summer and delivered four straight weeks of audience growth since the July 9 premiere.

The Futon Critic
Deadline
TV Line
Reality Tea
Variety
Reality Tea
Gold Derby
Reality Tea
TV Insider
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
Deadline
Deadline
Reality TV World
Deadline
TV Insider
Entertainment Weekly
The Wrap
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Entertainment Weekly
TV Line
The Wrap
TV Insider
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
Entertainment Weekly
Reality Tea
Reality Blurred
Reality TV World
NJ.com
The Providence Journal
Rob Has a Website
USA Today
The Sun
TV Insider
Us Weekly
Reality TV World
Entertainment Weekly

Deadline

The Futon Critic

TV Insider

Variety

Deadline

The Futon Critic

The Wrap

posted 8/10/2026


CTV
LLOYD ROBERTSON: 1934-2026
Legendary Canadian Broadcaster Hosted "Swingaround"
From CBC News

Lloyd Robertson, who delivered the news to Canadians in an authoritative and unflappable manner for more than 40 years as anchor for the flagship news programs of CTV and CBC, has died. He was 92.

His death was first reported by CTV and was confirmed by a family member to CBC News.

Robertson stepped away as CTV National News anchor in 2011 after 35 years, having joined the network in a move from CBC that reshaped Canadian broadcast news. He had been anchor of CBC's The National for six years.

"Someone came along with this … on my terms, in my life at precisely the right moment, and it was irresistible. I couldn't turn it down," he told CBC's Take 30 in 1976, days after accepting the offer.

At CTV, Robertson helped lead coverage of 11 federal elections, three Canadian-hosted Olympic Games and two Quebec referendums, as well as tragedies like the 1985 Air India bombing, 1989 Montreal massacre and the Sept. 11 attacks. He also helped share inspiring stories such as Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope.

Robertson also hosted "Swingaround", a game show from 1968, in addition to appearing on an episode of "MasterChef Canada".

CBC News
The Gliobe & Mail
FTVLive
CTV News

posted 8/3/2026

CBS Media Ventures Set Fall Premieres
"Flip Side" Season 3, "Perfect Line" Season 2 Launch September 14
From TV Newscheck

CBS Media Ventures on Wednesday said it will launch its fall syndication lineup starting Monday, Sept. 14.

CBS Media Ventures on Wednesday said it will launch its fall syndication lineup starting Monday, Sept. 14, with a mix of returning series and new productions that include court shows, game shows, daytime talk and entertainment news.

The schedule features new court program ADAM’S LAW, created by Judge Judy Sheindlin and presided over by her son, Judge Adam Levy; season returns for daytime talker THE DREW BARRYMORE SHOW and entertainment newsmagazine ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT; and new or returning entries in game and clip programming, including FLIP SIDE, THE PERFECT LINE, AMERICAN MAYHEM and HOT BENCH.

FLIP SIDE (season 3) — Premiere: Monday, Sept. 14 Game show FLIP SIDE, hosted by Jaleel White, returns for a third season Sept. 14. The program mixes trivia with physical-comedy challenges, the distributor said. Season 3 leans deeper into exploring relationships, dating, social behaviors, and everyday life situations that viewers can relate to. This season will also have multiple celebrity episodes, which will have them competing for charity, along with everyday contestants.

THE PERFECT LINE (season 2) — Premiere: Monday, Sept. 14 The Perfect Line, the top new syndicated show of the 2025-26 season, returns Sept. 14 with Deborah Norville hosting the visual trivia format that invites viewers to play along. Season 2 will feature special episodes with the editors of People Magazine playing as well as host Deborah Norville‘s family. In addition to fun new graphics, there’s a new addition to the bonus game, and contestants can choose their own fate, giving them a better chance to win money.

TV Newscheck
Deadline
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
TV Insider
Reality TV World

posted 8/5/2026

M
Amazon MGM Studios/Talpa/NBC/Getty

This Is "The Voice"... Celebrity Edition
Keke Palmer Tapped to Host
From the Hollywood Reporter

After trying to make stars for 15 years and 30 seasons, The Voice will feature a group of already well-known contestants in 2027.

The NBC singing competition will launch a celebrity edition next year, featuring a group of actors, musicians, athletes, comedians, reality TV stars and influencers showing off their vocal talent.

Keke Palmer will host the show, taking the reins of The Voice: Celebrity (the official title) from usual emcee Carson Daly. Palmer also hosts the game show Password for NBC. Joe Jonas, Queen Latifah and Riley Green will be the coaches for the celebrity season. Jonas will sit in the swivel chair for the first time, while Queen Latifah and Green will stay on after season 30 in the fall, where they’ll serve as coaches alongside Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine.

The Voice: Celebrity will also feature a few additions to the show’s usual format. Viewers will see a Voice boot camp as contestants prep for their blind auditions and a “VIP room” where the group gathers to watch other performances. Prior to the battle rounds, contestants will rehearse and come up with strategy in a workroom environment.

The lineup of celebrity singers will be announced closer to the show’s premiere date, slated for sometime in 2027

. MGM Alternative produces The Voice with Warner Horizon Unscripted Television and ITV Studios The Voice USA, Inc. Series creator John de Mol executive produces with Mark Burnett, Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson, Adam H. Sher and Barry Poznick. Daly will be a producer on the celebrity edition.

Carson Daly has commented on why Keke Palmer is hosting “The Voice: Celebrity,” an upcoming spinoff of the NBC singing competition he’s hosted for 15 years. After praising the new series as a “fun, new idea” that he’s “been talking about on ‘The Today Show’ for a while now,” he wrote in an Instagram caption that he is “not the right host for it. We have a NEW amazing HOST! The triple threat queen @keke who is PERFECT for it! I’m so grateful she carved out the time in her busy career to help us out. We’re all big fans & welcome her to the family.”

Clarifying further, he added, “Many today have asked if I’m leaving the show. Nope. We’re gonna try out these 2 formats this fall/spring & see how it goes! Hopefully this post clears up any confusion. I am still hosting the show currently. In fact, I have hosted & produced every single second of the show since day 1.” He also noted that he’ll serve as a producer on “The Voice: Celebrity” and “helping it launch from behind the scenes.”.

The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
The Wrap
TV Line
Deadline

TV Insider

Variety

Entertainment Weekly

TV Line

Deadline

posted 8/5/2026

Anil Kapoor Joins the 1% Club in India
"India Ke Top 1%" Launches September 5
From the Times of India

Star Plus and JioHotstar will premiere ‘India Ke Top 1%’, the Indian adaptation of the international game-show format ‘The 1% Club’, on September 5, with actor Anil Kapoor as host.

The launch marks Star Plus’s return to non-fiction after the channel largely focused on fiction programming over the past few years. JioStar is positioning the show as part of its festive-season programming push across television and streaming.

Unlike conventional quiz shows centred on general knowledge, ‘India Ke Top 1%’ will test contestants on logic, observation, common sense and presence of mind.

The format has previously been adapted across markets, including the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Greece, Australia, Israel, Turkey, Ukraine, Mexico and the US.

The Times of India
Indian TV Info
BestMediaInfo

posted 7/27/2026

More on "The Traitors India" Season 2
Catch It on Prime Video August
From Variety

Prime Video will globally premiere Season 2 of “The Traitors,” its Indian adaptation of the hit international reality format in August, with new episodes streaming every Thursday.

Karan Johar returns to host the season, in which 21 celebrities from various fields will compete in a game built around trust, betrayal and deception. The series is produced by Dharmatic Entertainment, Dharma Productions’ digital content studio, in collaboration with All3Media International, which oversees the Indian version of the BAFTA and Emmy-winning format created by IDTV. “The Traitors” has now been adapted in more than 40 territories worldwide.

“The response to the first season of ‘The Traitors’ exceeded all expectations – it didn’t just entertain; it became a cultural moment,” said Nikhil Madhok, director and head of originals, Prime Video India. “‘The Traitors’ has become one of Prime Video India’s most defining reality franchises, transforming the genre with its unique blend of intelligent gameplay, psychological strategy, and riveting entertainment.”

Madhok added that the new season raises the stakes with sharper gameplay and a new line-up of players.

“The Indian adaptation of ‘The Traitors’ struck a powerful chord with viewers in its very first season, and we couldn’t be more delighted to see it return for another thrilling chapter,” added Sabrina Duguet, executive VP, APAC, All3Media International.

Variety
The Futon Critic

Variety

posted 7/27/2026

M
Getty

Wink Martindale to the Hall
Legendary Game Show Host Becomes Radio Hall of Fame "Legend"
From Radio Insight

The Radio Hall of Fame has announced it has added nine “Legends” inductees of deceased individuals who will be immediately inducted into the hall.

The individuals were determined by the hall’s 2026 Nominating Committee.

Co-Chair Dennis Green said, “The Radio Hall of Fame is proud to honor this year’s Legends inductees, whose extraordinary careers have helped define the history and enduring impact of radio. From iconic on-air personalities to visionary executives, each has left an indelible mark on our industry and earned their rightful place in the Radio Hall of Fame.”

Co-Chair Kraig Kitchen followed, “It’s an honor and privilege to witness the induction of these radio industry legends. We hope this recognition of their industry contributions benefits their family, colleagues, friends and listeners.”

Wink Martindale was one of America’s most recognizable broadcasting personalities, enjoying a career that included radio, television, recording, and production for more than seven decades. Known for his warm personality, booming voice, and effortless charm, he became a pop culture icon while never losing his roots as a radio broadcaster. Martindale began his radio career at age 17 in his hometown of Jackson, Tennessee, before joining WHBQ-AM in Memphis while attending Memphis State University. There, he played a role in one of rock and roll’s most historic moments by arranging Elvis Presley’s first radio interview after “That’s All Right” received its initial airplay. His recording of the spoken- word classic “Deck of Cards” became a million-selling hit in 1959, the same year he joined KHJ -AM in Los Angeles before moving to KRLA-AM and later KFWB-AM. Wink joined KMPC- AM in 1971 and stayed with the station until 1987, with a four-year gap,1980-1983. His 20+ years on radio in Southern California made him one of the more familiar radio personalities.

While achieving international fame as the host of television game shows including Tic-Tac- Dough, Gambit , and High Rollers , Martindale remained dedicated to radio throughout his career. He later hosted the nationally syndicated Music of Your Life and The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll, bringing his distinctive style and love of music to listeners across America. His remarkable career earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and, in 2026, a Legends induction into the Radio Hall of Fame.

Radio Insight
Radio+Television Business Report
RadioWorld

posted 8/5/2026

"Love Island USA" Breaks Its Own Record
Season 8 Hits 19 Billion Minutes Viewed
From Variety

“Love Island USA” is officially the series of the summer.

According to Peacock, Season 8 of the reality dating series has reached nearly 19 billion minutes watched to date, spanning 35 episodes released between June 2 and July 13 — making it the streamer’s most-watched original season ever. Divided by the season’s nearly 40-hour runtime, that total translates to an estimate of close to 7.9 million views.

First-party data also indicates that 30% of the seasons’ viewership came from phones and tablets, one of Peacock’s biggest mobile audiences ever. Additionally, 35% of viewers were new to the series, not having watched previous seasons, and nearly half of viewers watched the series with at least one other person.

And “Aftersun,” Peacock’s “Love Island” aftershow hosted by Ciara Miller and Tefi Pessoa saw a 135% increase compared to last season.

By Nielsen’s measure, “Love Island USA” Season 8 is the most-watched streaming series of summer 2026 in addition to being the No. 1 streaming reality title for six consecutive weeks. These superlatives were calculated based on data measured between May 25 and July 12; Nielsen operates on a multi-week delay for streaming titles. Unsurprisingly, the season has been a phenomenon on social media.

Per Social Content Ratings, it generated more than 5 billion video views across platforms, and more than 2.5 billion views came from TikTok — marking a 47% increase from Season 7 and accounting for 68% of Season 8’s total social engagement.

On the “Love Island USA” app, where viewers can vote on multiple outcomes including which contestants get to stay on the show, there was an 85% increase in users and a 35% increase in voters compared to Season 7. Both the show’s app and the Peacock app reached No. 1 on the App Store during the run of Season 8.

News of “Love Island” Season 8’s ratings success comes ahead of the reunion special on Aug. 31, which will be hosted by Ariana Madix and Andy Cohen on Peacock.

Variety
Deadline

Entertainment Weekly

posted 8/5/2026

More on "Let's Marry Harry"
Catch It on Netflix August 5!
From the Futon Critic

Harry Jowsey is ready to find a lasting love connection.

After appearing on Netflix’s Too Hot to Handle and Perfect Match in 2021 and 2024, respectively, the podcaster, 29, is now set to headline his own reality dating series on the streaming service.

Let’s Marry Harry is set to premiere next month and will follow Jowsey as he puts “his situationship era” behind him and searches for true love among 20 potential suitors.

As Netflix admitted, the unscripted series is The Bachelor meets Too Hot to Handle. Instead of using just his own judgment, however, Jowsey will rely on the opinions of his close friends — Amanda Kloots (Dancing With the Stars), Georgia Hassarati (Too Hot to Handle), and abstract artist Sonny Henty — to sway his romantic decisions.

The show’s official synopsis reads, “After years of dating in the spotlight — and getting it wrong — his closest confidants are stepping in to make the tough calls. From a carefully selected pool of potential matches, they’ll decide who stays and who goes, guiding Harry toward what he truly wants: authentic love and marriage.”

The trailer has been released today.

Let’s Marry Harry will release eight episodes this summer — the first seven on Aug. 5, and the finale on Aug. 12. Each installment is an hour long.

The show is produced by Unwell, with executive producers Alex Cooper, Matt Kaplan, Mina Lefevre, and showrunner David Friedman. Cooper, of Call Her Daddy fame, also produced the recent Hulu series Love Overboard.

The Futon Critic
Entertainment Weekly
TV Insider
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Swooon

posted 8/5/2026

America Is Ready to (Not) Laugh
US Version of "LOL: Last One Laughing" Ordered
From the Wrap

Amazon MGM will bring international comedy series “LOL: Last One Laughing” to American audiences with Fulwell Entertainment.

Prime Video has greenlit a domestic version of the show. “LOL” has already expanded into other international franchises, most notably in the United Kingdom but also in the Philippines, Canada, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina and Thailand.

“’LOL: Last One Laughing’ is one of those rare series that transcends language and culture — the premise is beautifully simple, try not to laugh, and audiences around the world have fallen for it instantly” said Jenn Levy, head of nonfiction series at Amazon MGM Studios. “We’re proud to bring this beloved format to the U.S. with the incredible team at Fulwell Entertainment, and we can’t wait for American audiences to experience the hilarity for themselves.”

“LOL” challenges ten top comics and comedic actors to use their willpower to be the last one to crack a smile or laugh. The contestants can use any comedic tool in their kit to try to make the other comics laugh, including improv, characters, bits, physical comedy and sheer absurdity. The game also includes twists and “comedic curveballs,” according to the streamer, designed to shake up even the most stone-faced contestants. If you laugh, you lose.

The series is adapted from the Amazon Original series from Japan, “Documental,” created by Yoshimoto Kogyo. “LOL: Last One Laughing” has now become one of the most watched originals on Prime Video internationally with local spinoffs in over 25 territories. Prominent international hosts include Trevor Noah (South Africa), Rebel Wilson (Australia), Graham Norton (Ireland), Jimmy Carr (U.K.), Jay Baruchel (Canada) and Eugenio Derbez (Mexico), among others.

“We’re thrilled to bring this incredible format to the U.S. with our friends at Amazon MGM Studios,” Ben Winston, founding partner of Fulwell Entertainment, said. “Millions around the world have already fallen in love with this wonderful show, so we are beyond excited to be bringing it to American audiences, featuring some of the most beloved comedic voices from across the country.”

Amazon and Fulwell Entertainment have yet to announce the casting or the host of the American spinoff. The series will be executive produced by Winston, Emma Conway and Eric Pankowski, who will also serve as showrunner. 'Fulwell Entertainment’s unscripted division is best known for producing “The Kardashians,” “Friends: The Reunion” and game shows “The Wall” and “Roast Battle.” The studio was also behind the Olympics closing ceremony handover from host city Paris to Los Angeles and will produce the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in L.A.

The Wrap
Deadline

posted 8/5/2026

Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Not Everyone's Welcome at the Cookout"


posted 8/5/2023

M
CW

"Scrabble", "Trivial Pursuit" to Return
New Episodes Begin October 1
From the Futon Critic

The CW Network today announced pickup orders for its three most successful original unscripted series, renewing SCRABBLE and TRIVIAL PURSUIT for a third season with new one-hour episodes, along with a fourth-season order for new one-hour episodes of POLICE 24/7.

The combined order builds on the momentum of the three breakout unscripted series, which have collectively reached more than 31.4 million viewers on The CW since debuting and generated more than 1.2 million viewing hours across The CW's digital platforms.

This fall, all three series will expand their reach even further, having already secured syndication clearances in more than 85% of U.S. television markets. Together, the three series rank among The CW's top five prime-time entertainment programs for the 2025-26 season.

Hosted by Emmy(R) Award-winning actor and comedian Craig Ferguson, SCRABBLE brings the iconic Hasbro word game to life as contestants put their vocabulary, strategy and quick thinking to the test for the chance to win life-changing cash prizes. Since premiering on The CW, SCRABBLE has reached more than 9.2 million viewers. The series is produced by Hasbro Entertainment, The CW, Mattel Television Studios and Lionsgate Alternative Television.

Hosted by Emmy(R) and Grammy Award-winning entertainer LeVar Burton, TRIVIAL PURSUIT, developed by Hasbro Entertainment and inspired by the iconic Hasbro board game, transforms one of the world's most recognizable trivia brands into a fast-paced competition where contestants put their knowledge to the test across a wide range of categories. Along with the upcoming unscripted adaptation of MONOPOLY, the series is part of Hasbro Entertainment's portfolio of television programming based on the most beloved brands. Following two second seasons on The CW, the series has reached more than 14.7 million viewers. TRIVIAL PURSUIT is produced by Hasbro Entertainment, The CW, Lionsgate Alternative Television and Talpa Studios.

The second seasons of TRIVIAL PURSUIT and SCRABBLE continue on The CW this fall with new episodes debuting on Thursday, October 1. Premiere dates for the newly ordered seasons will be announced at a later date.

The Futon Critic
Deadline
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
TV NewsCheck

posted 8/3/2026


Hulu/Disney/Sony Pictures TV

Jamie Ding Teams with Ben Affleck
"Millionaire" Scores Best Numbers in a Year
From The Futon Critic

Following on a strong start to the season, week 2 of ABC's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" rose from last week's Season 5 premiere with 4.22 million Total Viewers (+4%; vs. 4.07 million), as contestants Ben Affleck and Jamie Ding won the $1 million prize for Eastern Congo Initiative.

"Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" was the top program of the night for the second week in a row among Total Viewers, leading its closest competition by +28% (vs. 3.29 million for CBS' "Big Brother-Wed").

"Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" scored the show's best performance in a year, since Matt Damon and Ken Jennings won the $1 million prize last summer (7/30/25).

On this week's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire," airing Wednesday, Aug. 5, on ABC (streaming next day on Hulu), country music star Brad Paisley teams up with MLB legend Clayton Kershaw, followed by comedian Michael Kosta and actress Wendi McLendon-Covey.

People
TV Insider
WLS-TV Chicago

The Futon Critic

Deadline

posted 8/3/2026

"Weakest Link" Embraces Villain Era
Reality Foes to Compete on New Season
From Entertainment Weekly

You don’t have to go to the House of Villains to see a collection of reality television baddies, because many of them will be making like the Avengers and assembling on a game show set this fall. Celebrity Weakest Link will kick off its second season (which premieres Sept. 21 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Fox and the next day on Hulu) with an episode featuring eight of reality TV’s most famous — and infamous — personalities.

The “reality villains” episode features:
- Richard Hatch: The original reality competition villain who won the very first season of Survivor, Hatch returned for Survivor: All-Stars and recently appeared on House of Villains.
- Omarosa: The former White House aide began her reality TV career on the first season of The Apprentice, before returning for two more celebrity installments of the Donald Trump-hosted show. She has since competed on Celebrity Big Brother, Big Brother Australia VIP, and House of Villains.
- Tiffany Pollard: The one-time VH1 mainstay started as a contestant on the first two seasons of Flavor of Love before scoring her own spin-off with I Love New York. Since then, she has competed on Celebrity Big Brother in the U.K., Worst Cooks in America: Celebrity Edition, and all three seasons of House of Villains.
- Bob the Drag Queen: The RuPaul’s Drag Race season 8 winner also made a splash on The Traitors, getting into a game-ending feud with fellow Traitor Boston Rob.
- Tom Sandoval: The Vanderpump Rules star has been appearing all over the reality competition spectrum, doing turns on Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, The Masked Singer, The Traitors, America’s Got Talent, and House of Villains.
- Monica Garcia: Garcia only appeared on one season of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, but what a season it was, as she feuded with castmates and was then let go from the show. She then provided the voice of EVA 2.0 on season 2 of — what else? — House of Villains.
- Big Ed: Big Ed has managed to extend his 15 minutes of fame thanks to his exploits on 90 Day Fiancé and various franchise offshoots.
- Christine Quinn: The realtor-turned-Selling Sunset star left the Netflix series after five seasons, and has since competed on The Masked Singer and, you guessed it, House of Villains.

Who will emerge triumphant and win up to one million dollars for their charity, and who will emerge as the weakest link? We’ll find out this fall.

Entertainment Weekly
TV Insider

posted 8/3/2026


Getty
VINCENT PASTORE: 1946-2026
"The Sopranos" Actor Played Games
From Entertainment Weekly

Vincent Pastore, the actor best known for his work on HBO’s The Sopranos, has died. Pastore was found by a neighbor at his home in the Bronx in New York City on Saturday, Deadline reported. He was 80 years old.

The outlet also reported that nobody had heard from Pastore for three days before he was found, and that authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Pastore was best known for playing mob informant Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on The Sopranos. He was a regular on the classic crime drama’s first two seasons and later guest starred in two episodes of season 3, one episode of season 5, and one episode of season 6.

Pastore’s manager, Robert Attermann, shared a statement honoring the late actor. “I had the privilege of representing Vinny for more than 30 years, long before The Sopranos made him a household name,” he wrote. “To the world, he will always be remembered as the unforgettable ‘Big Pussy,’ but to those of us who knew him, he was so much more.”

Attermann memorialized the actor as “one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever known,” adding, “He treated everyone with warmth and respect, never turning down a fan who wanted a photograph or an autograph. He genuinely appreciated the people who supported him and always made them feel valued.”

The performer’s manager spoke highly of Pastore’s commitment to his work. “He loved being an actor,” he wrote. “He was passionate about his craft and was always encouraging, respectful, and generous with young actors, taking the time to offer guidance and support whenever he could.”

He continued, “For me, losing Vinny is deeply personal. Over more than three decades, I had the honor of watching not only his remarkable career but also the incredible person he was. I will miss his friendship, his loyalty, his humor, and his generosity.” Attermann concluded, “My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless fans whose lives he touched. He leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his memorable performances. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. May his memory be a blessing.”

Born in the Bronx in 1946, Pastore served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, and later earned a drama degree from Pace University. He worked in nightclubs and bars for decades before finally making his screen debut in the 1988 horror movie Black Roses.

Pastore said that he broke into Hollywood circles after connecting with Matt and Kevin Dillon. “It was really Kevin Dillon who got me my first break,” he told Edge Magazine. “I used to drive a limo in New York and that’s when I met the brothers for the first time. I told them about my dreams of becoming an actor. They ended up seeing me at this community theater I was doing, and Kevin helped me out. He gave me the direction I needed to finally act. From there, Danny Aiello really became my mentor.”

Pastore appeared in numerous high-profile movies and shows in small roles, primarily playing mobsters and tough New Yorkers in films like Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas, Mario Van Peebles’ New Jack City, Brian De Palma’s Carlito’s Way, and Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery in the early 1990s. He also played several different characters in a string of one-off appearances on Law & Order, and appeared in a Broadway production of Chicago in 1996.

Other notable credits in the 1990s included Awakenings, The Basketball Diaries, The Jerky Boys: The Movie, Mickey Blue Eyes, The Hurricane, and the HBO movie Gotti.

“Gotti was a big hit for HBO, so they called us in, [to] bring in the usual suspects,” he told Eddie Mata in an interview in March. “And everybody they brought in from Gotti got a part.”

After landing the Sopranos gig, Pastore continued acting in movies, with supporting roles in projects like Riding in Cars With Boys, Made, Shark Tale, and The Family. He amassed nearly 200 acting credits in his four-decade screen career, appearing on shows like General Hospital, The Practice, Bull, Ed, Blue Bloods, Hawaii Five-0, and The Curse. His most recent screen credit came when he voiced a llama in a season 3 episode of Yellowjackets in 2025.

Pastore appeared on a number of reality shows, including Dancing With the Stars, Shark Tank, The Celebrity Apprentice, and Celebrity Family Feud. He also hosted a radio show, The Wiseguy Show, on Sirius, and later started the Fuhgeddaboudit podcast in 2020.

Entertainment Weekly
Deadline

posted 8/3/2026

Monday Lightning Round
... or "The Big Time"

  • Kamri Peterson graduates from "Dancing with the Stars Juniors" to the mothership... as a member of the troupe (Deadline)

  • BBC reportedly nervous about jokes on "Have I Got News For You" during their lawsuit (Deadline)

  • Did Carson Daly quiet quit "The Voice" season 31? (The Sun)

  • Remember Geno Segers, the host of DisneyXD's version of "Fort Boyard". He was in Hadestown.... WAS. (Broadway World)

  • MOMENT OF AWESOME: Zac Brown gives 37,000 fans a free cruise (WKRC Cincinnati)

posted 8/3/2023

MORE NEWS
GSNN 30-Day News Archive
GSNN 3-Month News Archive
ON TODAY
Wednesday
 

The Challenge: Cutthroat
Paramount+

Let's Marry Harry
Season Finale
Netflix

8p

Best Guess Live
Live
Netflix

Big Brother
CBS/Paramount+

Daily Trivia Live
Live
Swagbucks

MasterChef: Global Gauntlet
Fox

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
ABC

9p

Alone
History

Guy's Grocery Games
Food

Nation's Dumbest
Fox

10:30p

Forged in Fire
History

All times and editors eastern


Friends of GSNN

SpectrumOneBuzzerblog

TriviaNYCReality Wanted
The Jeopardy! FanRock 104's RockTrax
Home Game EntertainmentQuizzing North America

FlashGames
Bother's Bar
About.com Game Shows
QWIZX.com
The Futon Critic
Reality TV World
Hollywood Junket
Hal Boedeker: the TV Guy
F*** Yeah Game Shows @ Tumblr
GSNtheKnow

Gay Geeks of New York

Copyright Statement
ALL ORIGINAL MATERIAL COPYRIGHT 1999-2025 GAMESHOWNEWSNET.COM. All rights reserved.

No infringement of copyright is intended by these fan pages; production companies of shows this site covers retain all rights to the sounds, images, and information contained herein. No challenge to copyright is implied. 

Web design by Jason Elliott. Logo by Chico Alexander. 
Full Copyright Statement
 

Powered by 1&1 Internet